The PNG Chiefs have further bolstered their inaugural NRL season preparations for 2028 with the acquisition of esteemed England international and St Helens premiership-winning forward Matty Lees.

Lees, a multiple Super League Premiership winner and England representative, becomes the fourth player to join the club’s burgeoning roster, bringing a wealth of elite experience, leadership, and a proven winning mentality to the PNG Chiefs programme.

The signing of Lees, who has made over 170 professional appearances, marks another significant milestone in the club’s recruitment drive, as they assemble a team capable of competing with the NRL’s elite from day one while building a strong foundation for long-term success.

The PNG Chiefs would like to extend their gratitude to St Helens for their professionalism throughout the process and look forward to welcoming Lees to Papua New Guinea following the completion of his commitments with the club.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Lees is renowned for his exceptional standards, resilience, humility, and team-first mentality, qualities that will play a pivotal role in shaping the culture and identity of the club. Following the announcements of Players 001, 002, and 003, the signing of Lees represents another crucial step forward as the PNG Chiefs continue building towards their historic NRL debut in 2028.

PNG Chiefs General Manager Football Michael Chammas stated that securing a player of Lees’ calibre was a significant coup for the club.

“Matty Lees is an exemplary forward in rugby league, built on a foundation of hard work, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to the game. These qualities align perfectly with our vision for the PNG Chiefs as we build our roster and culture for 2028. We are thrilled to secure Lees as Player 004 and eagerly anticipate the impact he will have on and off the field.”

PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson welcomed the latest signing, highlighting Lees’ embodiment of the values and standards the club is striving to establish.

“As we continue building the PNG Chiefs, we are focused on attracting quality individuals who possess exceptional character, professionalism, and commitment to their team. Matty has earned immense respect throughout his career, and we are delighted to have him on board.”

“As Player 004, Lees becomes an integral part of the foundation group that will establish the standards and identity of the club for years to come. The signing of Matty Lees continues the steady growth of the PNG Chiefs roster as the club builds towards its historic NRL debut in 2028.

With each announcement, the vision for the club continues to take shape, assembling a roster built on talent, character, professionalism, and leadership, creating a platform that can inspire future generations of Papua New Guinean rugby league players and supporters.

As Player 004, Matty Lees now becomes part of that journey.